12/22/2011

BMW’s new hybrid-powered 5-series, unveiled at the Tokyo motor show today, will cost from £46,860 when it goes on sale in the UK in February 2012.
The BMW ActiveHybrid 5 is based on the current BMW 535i saloon and achieves a 16 per cent improvement in fuel economy compared with that model.
Using the 535i’s 296bhp twin-turbocharged straight-six petrol engine, the hybrid model adds a 54bhp electric motor. Combined, both power sources produce 330bhp and 332lb ft of torque – driven through an eight-speed automatic gearbox – giving the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 a 0-62mph time of 5.9sec.
On the combined cycle, it will achieve 44.1mpg, while emitting 149g/km CO2 and top speed is limited to 155mph.

Tokyo show: BMW ActiveHybrid 5

BMW ActiveHybrid 5

The lithium-ion battery pack – stowed in the car’s boot – enables the new 5-series to be driven at speeds of up to 37mph on electricity alone. A total electric distance of 2.5 miles is achievable when averaging 22mph.
Features of the new car include brake regeneration, stop-start and hill-start assist.
Bespoke touches include ‘BMW ActiveHybrid 5’ badging on the C-pillars, grille and door sills and 17-inch alloys come as standard. Inside, the cabin is clad with a Fineline Anthracite wood interior trim with integrated satellite-navigation.